Can Gas Go Bad?

Cropped shot of a handsome young man refuelling his car at a gas station

Your busy life probably requires you to use your vehicle every day. However, not everyone in Gallup, NM, faces this same need. If you use your car less often, there’s a chance the gas sitting in the tank could start to go bad. This can cause serious problems, but you can avoid this. With a few steps and techniques, you can keep the gasoline in your car fresh. You can also spot the signs that the gas is going bad and understand how and why this process occurs.

The Longevity of Gas

Like any chemical, the properties of gas will change over time. As gas changes, the engine will not be able to process it effectively to power the vehicle. In a tank, gas can last up to three months. However, some organic-based ethanol gas can lose its combustibility in as little as one month. The type of fuel in your vehicle or how you store the fuel will help to determine how long it lasts.

How You Know If It’s Going Bad

Knowing when the fuel starts to falter doesn’t have to be guesswork. There are clear clues that the gas has become bad and ineffective. For example, the car may not start when you initiate the ignition. Or, the ignition may hesitate as you try to start it. Stalling and trouble accelerating can also occur. Furthermore, you may notice that the check engine lights will come on or that there are irregular changes in speed. Commonly, the fuel efficiency will drop.

How to Make the Gas Last Longer

The simplest way to answer this question is to drive. At the least, drive short distances throughout the week. Doing this helps to prevent the gas from getting stagnant. Making sure you fill the tank all the way when you get gas can also keep the gas from going bad. Purchasing and using a fuel stabilizer can also help.

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What to Do If the Gas Does Go Bad

Despite your best efforts, if the gas still goes bad, there are things you can do in response. For instance, you can siphon the gas using a 6-foot garden hose. Put one end in the tank and the other into an empty can. Take the hose out of the can and carefully suck on one end, putting the hose back into the can when you feel that fuel is running into the hose. Furthermore, you can remove the fuel pump from the tank. Lastly, another option is to put dry gasoline into the tank and fill it with high-octane gas and an octane booster.

If the gas in your car goes bad, you can follow these tips to know what to do next. You can also bring your vehicle to the service department at Amigo CDJR in Gallup, New Mexico. Stop by today for help with any needs your vehicle has.

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